As Chinese President Xi Jinping declared the 19th AsianGames open at the lotus-shaped Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium, the Hangzhou Asian Games marks the third time China has hosted the Asiad, following Beijing in 1990 and Guangzhou in 2010, and has set a new record in the numbers of registered athletes and events.
With the theme “Tides Surging in Asia”, water played a central role throughout the cultural performance.
It symbolized the memories of the Qiantang River, the excitement of sports, Zhejiang’s spirit, and the pulse of the times, illustrating the connection between China, Asia, and the broader world. Landmark buildings from various Asian countries and regions were also displayed on the vertical LED screens, promoting a message of co-existence and harmony.
The opening ceremony was attended by numerous state leaders and international dignitaries, including King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia, President Bashar al-Assad of Syria, Crown Prince Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of Kuwait, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda of Nepal, Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao of Timor-Leste, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo of the Republic of Korea, Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat of Malaysia Johari bin Abdul, the Sultan of Brunei’s representative Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, the Emir of Qatar’s representative Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prince Faisal bin Hussein of Jordan, Princess Sirivannavari of Thailand and International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach.
Wish all an unforgettable experience in the picturesque Zhejiang and a fond memory by the flames of the Asian Games, and look forward to exceptional performances and success to all athletes, especially the athletes from China and the Philippines.
